This list of causes of basal cell carcinoma is by no means comprehensive. If you think you might have a basal cell carcinoma or a squamous cell carcinoma, speak with your doctor right away.

Repeated or Over-Exposure to Ultraviolet Light

Exposure to the sun’s rays (or from tanning beds) is considered to be the largest contributing risk factor for most skin cancers. Ultraviolet (UV) rays do not make up a significant portion of all the sun’s rays, but the damage they cause to the DNA of skin cells leads to the development of skin cancer.

Light Skin Tones

Caucasians have a much greater risk of developing skin cancer than African Americans and Hispanics. The skin pigment melanin protects those with darker skin. Caucasians with especially light skin that freckles and burns easily are at the highest risk.

Age and Gender

As humans age, the risk of getting a basal or squamous cell skin cancer rises, likely due to the buildup of exposure to the sun over the years. Men are also more likely than women to develop these types of skin cancer. Recently, younger and younger people are contracting these skin cancers; doctors attribute this to the fact that in general, younger people spend more time in the sun than the youths of the past.

Previous Instances of Skin Cancer

Those who have previously had a basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma are at a much higher risk for developing more skin cancers.

Treatment for Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinoma

If you are seeking treatment for basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, consider the SRT-100™ as an alternative to Mohs surgery. The SRT-100™ delivers precise bursts of Superficial Radiotherapy to the affected area. The treatment is painless, and there is no downtime afterwards.

Interested in learning more about the SRT-100™? Contact Sensus Healthcare today or ask your doctor if the SRT-100™ is the right treatment for you.